UK holidaymakers planning to jet off with a budget airline this summer are being told of a ‘sneaky’ trick that could save them money on hand luggage fees. Many low-cost carriers typically permit passengers to bring a small bag onboard at no extra cost, but larger items of luggage incur additional charges.
Ryanair, for instance, allows a ‘small bag’ to be carried onto the plane free of charge, provided it fits under the seat in front and does not exceed 40x20x25cms. However, stowing an extra bag weighing up to 10kg in the hold can cost as much as £44.99 at the airport, and there is also a £12 per kilo excess baggage fee.
Similarly, EasyJet permits ‘one small under seat cabin bag per person on board for free’, which must not exceed 45x36x20cm including any handles and wheels, and must be kept under the seat in front. The bag can weigh up to 15kg, but passengers must be able to lift it themselves.
However, consumer rights group Which? has highlighted a simple solution to this potentially costly problem. Customers are told that simply picking up a shopping bag from a retail outlet once you are through the security gates can immediately enhance how much you are allowed to take on the plane.
“This duty-free luggage hack feels illegal… But it’s not!” said Which? on its Instagram account, giving a nod to Cheapholidayexp for the original advice. “Did you know an airport shopping bag is a sneaky way to increase your luggage allowance?”
“Pick one up once you are through security and use it to store extra items that won’t fit in your cabin luggage, like a small handbag. And it doesn’t count towards your luggage allowance. It’s the perfect way round strict budget airline measurements.”
However, Which? did stress that, while their example worked on Ryaniar, it was important to check the small print to make sure it was allowed by your specific airline. Both the Ryanair and easyJet websites confirm that a duty-free bag is allowed on board the plane.
